Cost-effective method for growing three-dimensional cell cultures in extracellular matrix extract

Three-dimensional (3-D) cell cultures are advantageous for modeling complex cellular behavior. A major issue with 3-D cultures grown in Engelbreth-Holm-Swarm (EHS) extracellular matrix extract, however, is the expense. We describe here a simple method using a rubber gasket laid over a coverslip, which provides sufficient 3-D area filled with a minimal amount of EHS, resulting in cost-effective 3-D cellular cultures that are easy to manipulate.